Hyderabad.20.09.2024: The Telangana government, led by Revanth Reddy, has announced a major step to combat pollution by banning vehicles over 15 years old from operating on the roads. Starting from January 1, 2025, vehicles that are 15 years or older, or those that fail fitness tests, will no longer be allowed to run. The government also plans to stop registering such vehicles altogether.
Fitness Tests for Vehicles
Vehicles that pass fitness tests may be allowed to operate for another three to five years if the owners pay a green tax. This policy also applies to government vehicles that are over 15 years old, with plans to scrap around 10,000 such vehicles currently in government departments. Currently, only Delhi has a strict rule where vehicles older than 15 years are banned from the roads. Telangana plans to follow in the footsteps of states like Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
Over 20 Lakh Vehicles in Greater Hyderabad
In Telangana, more than 30 lakh vehicles are over 15 years old. According to government data, around 20 lakh of these vehicles are located within Greater Hyderabad. These include 17 lakh two-wheelers, 3.5 lakh cars, 1 lakh goods vehicles, and 20,000 auto-rickshaws.
1,000 RTC Buses to Be Scrapped
Around 1,000 RTC buses that are over 15 years old are also on the list to be scrapped. Additionally, officials found that buses used by educational institutions are also old, with over 2,000 of them being more than 15 years old. To encourage the scrapping of old vehicles, the government is considering offering a 10-15% concession on motor vehicle tax for owners who choose to dispose of them.
Road Accidents Involving Old Vehicles
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has reported that vehicles older than 15 years were involved in 1,000 road accidents in the past year. In 2022 alone, 1,306 accidents involving such vehicles were recorded, leading to the deaths of 418 people. Road safety experts emphasize that older vehicles are more prone to damage and pose significant risks on the roads.
This move by the Telangana government aims to improve road safety and reduce pollution, with plans to scrap outdated and unfit vehicles for the betterment of public health and environmental safety.
